Pirates strive to stop Dodgers’ surge
Ross Stripling may not have the name recognition of some of the Dodgers’ other rotation members, but the righty continues to help the team make a serious push for first in the NL West.
Dave Roberts’ unexpectedly instrumental rookie targets his fourth win of the campaign in tonight’s series opener vs. Pittsburgh, with a 10:10 p.m. ET first pitch on the West Coast. Handicappers at online sports book BetDSI back the home squad here, whereas the Buccos represent +149 underdogs. The over/under run figure is eight.
Rich Hill’s recurrent blister problem means another chance for Stripling (3-3, 3.79 ERA) to prove his worth. Most recently, the Pennsylvania native tossed five scoreless frames in a 3-0 triumph over Boston. Since May 22, he boasts an absurd ERA of 1.08.
Clint Hurdle’s hurler also enters this evening’s bout on a roll. Ivan Nova (8-6, 4.83) fanned five, walked none and permitted three runs in his Pittsburgh debut, a 5-3 victory against Cincinnati last weekend. Nevertheless, he’s still trying to throw more than seven innings for the first time in 2016.
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With the Giants now holding only a one-game lead, look for Los Angeles to give Nova a strong challenge in several hours. The Pirates just beat San Diego rather handily, but the Dodgers own a 13-10 record in the second half. In short, side with the Boys in Blue.
FRIDAY MLB FREE PICK: PIRATES/DODGERS OVER 8 RUNS